1989 Dodge Dakota SE Convertible - Going Topless

This Drop-Top Dakota is a Little-Known Factory Experiment

The 1989 Dakota Sport convertible was built through a contract Chrysler signed with the American Conversion Shop, making it the first American convertible pickup since the Ford Model A. Roughly 2,500 were sold that first year, but sales faded away by 1991, and Chrysler ended production of this unique model. This particular Dakota convertible is owned by Andrew Simione, an experienced hot rodder from New Jersey. Even though his drop-top Dakota was already one of the most unique trucks in Jersey, Drew still wasn't satisfied, so the modifications began. After refreshing the 3.9L V-6 with added power, lowering the suspension, and adding a stylish set of 18-inch KMC wheels, he was satisfied, since his rare truck had become truly one-of-a-kind.

Basically the Dakota Convertible was a throwback to Ford Model A truck. In addition, there was a fad at that time with convertible trucks on the west coast. Chrysler Corporation wanted to try this idea. It was a flop hence the three year production run and the price since the convertible was an option on the higher end packages. In 1990 you could get it on a base truck and yes there was some powered by a 4 cylinder.